Grounding system

ABSTRACT

A grounding system, structured to ground a number of cables supported by a support assembly, includes a multi-function line assembly and a number of conductive mounting assemblies. Each conductive mounting assembly is structured to be coupled to the multi-function line and to a conductive pile.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This is a continuation application of and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/553,513, filed Aug. 28, 2019, which applicationis a continuation application and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/205,280, filed Nov. 30, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No.10,461,518, issued Oct. 29, 2019, which application is a continuationapplication and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/725,668, filed Oct. 5, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,177,551, issuedJan. 8, 2019, entitled GROUNDING SYSTEM.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The disclosed and claimed concept relates to a grounding system for asuspended cable assembly and, more particularly, to a grounding systemthat includes conductive elements whereby grounding cables do not needto be spliced into a conductor wire disposed adjacent a messenger wire,and, to a system wherein a multi-function line provides support and acurrent path.

Background Information

In solar, mining, and electrical industries there is a need forelectrical cables to extend from a power or signal source to a locationof application. Such cables are usually indirectly connected andsupported by a support assembly including a number of poles or piles(hereinafter, and collectively, “piles”), a messenger wire, and a numberof cable hangers. That is, a number of piles provide elevated supportpoints extending along a selected path. The “messenger wire” is, and asused herein, a robust cable structured to support a number of otherwires (hereinafter, “supported wires”) and which is not structured tocarry a signal or power. The support assembly further includes agrounding conductor or a grounding conductor wire that is disposedadjacent the messenger wire and/or among the supported wires. Themessenger wire is coupled to the piles at an elevated location. Thenumber of cable hangers are then coupled to the messenger wire. Thecable hangers are structured to support the supported wires such as, butnot limited to, electrical and signal wires.

For example, solar plants comprise large arrays of solar panels spreadout over a large area. The solar panels are supported by a rackingassembly coupled to a pile or other support. The solar panels collectthe sun's rays causing a current to flow to current wires that areattached to the solar panels. The current flows to other equipment(collectively, along with any equipment downstream of the solar panels,“solar electrical equipment”). For example, in one embodiment, the solarpanels generate a direct current that is communicated to combiner boxesbefore being communicated to power inverters wherein the direct currentis converted to alternating current. In another embodiment, each solarpanel has a micro-inverter that converts the current to alternatingcurrent which is then communicated to other solar electrical equipment.Accordingly, as used herein, any conductor that carries current, director alternating, from a solar panel is, as used herein, a “current wire.”Each current wire extends away from the associated solar panel and isgrouped with a bundle of similar current wires from other solar panels.The bundle of current wires is supported by a series of cable hangerssuspended from a messenger wire. The messenger wire is supported by anumber of piles extending adjacent the solar panels or which support thesolar panels.

While the messenger wire is not structured to carry a current, there areinstances wherein the messenger wire does carry a current. For example,lightning is known to strike the messenger wires, the current wire(s),the solar electrical equipment, the support piles, or any otherconstruct coupled to these elements. Further, a current wire, or anyother wire carrying a current can fail creating a short or otherundesirable current in the supported bundle of wires. This is why aconductor or grounding wire is disposed adjacent the messenger wires;hereinafter, such a wire is identified as a “grounding conductor.” Thegrounding conductor must be coupled to a current path to the ground.Further, many regulations require that the grounding conductor begrounded at each pile. Presently, the grounding conductor is grounded bysplicing a conductor, such as, but not limited to, a copper wire intothe grounding conductor and coupling the copper wire to a groundingcable or, if the piles are conductive, to each pile. That is, the copperwire must be spliced into the grounding conductor, i.e., a “groundingsplice,” and, then electrically coupled to the pile or a ground cable.The process of installing the conductors, i.e., splicing the copper wireinto the grounding conductor and making an electrical coupling with thepile is difficult, time consuming and expensive. These are problems ofthe known art.

There is, therefore, a need for a grounding system that is lessexpensive and which can be installed quickly and easily. There is afurther need for the grounding system to be compatible with existingsupport assemblies.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These needs, and others, are met by at least one embodiment of thedisclosed and claimed concept which provides a grounding systemstructured to ground a number of cables supported by a support assembly.The grounding system includes a multi-function line assembly and anumber of conductive mounting assemblies. Each conductive mountingassembly is structured to be, and is, coupled to the multi-function lineand to a conductive pile. This configuration provides a path to groundfor a current in the multi-function line assembly. Further, themulti-function line supports the cable hangers (which support thecurrent wires, data wires and other wires). That is, a singlemulti-function line supports the cable hangers, as a messenger wire, andprovides a current path, as a grounding conductor. Accordingly, as usedherein, a “multi-function line” means a tension member that supportscurrent wires and/or cable hangers, and, which is conductive. That is, amessenger wire is not a “multi-function line.” Similarly, a conductorthat does not support other constructs is not a “multi-function line.”

A grounding system in this configuration, and as discussed below, solvesthe problems noted above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full understanding of the invention can be gained from the followingdescription of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of an installation.

FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of an installation.

FIG. 3 is a top view of a conductive terminal support.

FIG. 4 is a side view of a conductive terminal support.

FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of an installation.

FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of an installation.

FIG. 7 is an isometric, cross-sectional view of a multi-function linewith a partially conductive body.

FIG. 8A is a top view of a multi-function line coupling with a clampingassembly. FIG. 8B is a side view of a multi-function line coupling witha clamping assembly. FIG. 8C is a front view of a multi-function linecoupling with a clamping assembly.

FIG. 9A is a top view of a multi-function line coupling with a splitbolt. FIG. 9B is a side view of a multi-function line coupling with asplit bolt. FIG. 9C is a front view of a multi-function line couplingwith a split bolt.

FIG. 10A is a top view of a multi-function line coupling with a doublebolt and retaining plate. FIG. 10B is a side view of a multi-functionline coupling with a double bolt and retaining plate. FIG. 10C is afront view of a multi-function line coupling with a double bolt andretaining plate.

FIG. 11A is a top view of a multi-function line coupling with a lay-inlug assembly. FIG. 11B is a side view of a multi-function line couplingwith a lay-in lug assembly. FIG. 11C is a front view of a multi-functionline coupling with a lay-in lug assembly.

FIG. 12 is a side view of a multi-function line coupling structured tosupport a plurality of multi-function lines.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

It will be appreciated that the specific elements illustrated in thefigures herein and described in the following specification are simplyexemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept, which are provided asnon-limiting examples solely for the purpose of illustration. Therefore,specific dimensions, orientations, assembly, number of components used,embodiment configurations and other physical characteristics related tothe embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting onthe scope of the disclosed concept.

Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example, clockwise,counterclockwise, left, right, top, bottom, upwards, downwards andderivatives thereof, relate to the orientation of the elements shown inthe drawings and are not limiting upon the claims unless expresslyrecited therein.

As used herein, the singular form of “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreferences unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, “structured to [verb]” means that the identified elementor assembly has a structure that is shaped, sized, disposed, coupledand/or configured to perform the identified verb. For example, a memberthat is “structured to move” is movably coupled to another element andincludes elements that cause the member to move or the member isotherwise configured to move in response to other elements orassemblies. As such, and as used herein, “structured to [verb]” recitesstructure and not function. Further, as used herein, “structured to[verb]” means that the identified element or assembly is intended to,and is designed to, perform the identified verb. Thus, an element thatis merely capable of performing the identified verb but which is notintended to, and is not designed to, perform the identified verb is not“structured to [verb].”

As used herein, “associated” means that the elements are part of thesame assembly and/or operate together, or, act upon/with each other insome manner. For example, an automobile has four tires and four hubcaps. While all the elements are coupled as part of the automobile, itis understood that each hubcap is “associated” with a specific tire.

As used herein, a “coupling assembly” includes two or more couplings orcoupling components. The components of a coupling or coupling assemblyare generally not part of the same element or other component. As such,the components of a “coupling assembly” may not be described at the sametime in the following description.

As used herein, a “coupling” or “coupling component(s)” is one or morecomponent(s) of a coupling assembly. That is, a coupling assemblyincludes at least two components that are structured to be coupledtogether. It is understood that the components of a coupling assemblyare compatible with each other. For example, in a coupling assembly, ifone coupling component is a snap socket, the other coupling component isa snap plug, or, if one coupling component is a bolt, then the othercoupling component is a nut.

As used herein, a “fastener” is a separate component structured tocouple two or more elements. Thus, for example, a bolt is a “fastener”but a tongue-and-groove coupling is not a “fastener.” That is, thetongue-and-groove elements are part of the elements being coupled andare not a separate component.

As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are“coupled” shall mean that the parts are joined or operate togethereither directly or indirectly, i.e., through one or more intermediateparts or components, so long as a link occurs. As used herein, “directlycoupled” means that two elements are directly in contact with eachother. As used herein, “fixedly coupled” or “fixed” means that twocomponents are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constantorientation relative to each other. Accordingly, when two elements arecoupled, all portions of those elements are coupled. A description,however, of a specific portion of a first element being coupled to asecond element, e.g., an axle first end being coupled to a first wheel,means that the specific portion of the first element is disposed closerto the second element than the other portions thereof. Further, anobject resting on another object held in place only by gravity is not“coupled” to the lower object unless the upper object is otherwisemaintained substantially in place. That is, for example, a book on atable is not coupled thereto, but a book glued to a table is coupledthereto.

As used herein, the phrase “removably coupled” or “temporarily coupled”means that one component is coupled with another component in anessentially temporary manner. That is, the two components are coupled insuch a way that the joining or separation of the components is easy andwould not damage the components. For example, two components secured toeach other with a limited number of readily accessible fasteners, i.e.,fasteners that are not difficult to access, are “removably coupled”whereas two components that are welded together or joined by difficultto access fasteners are not “removably coupled.” A “difficult to accessfastener” is one that requires the removal of one or more othercomponents prior to accessing the fastener wherein the “other component”is not an access device such as, but not limited to, a door.

As used herein, “temporarily disposed” means that a first element(s) orassembly (ies) is resting on a second element(s) or assembly(ies) in amanner that allows the first element/assembly to be moved without havingto decouple or otherwise manipulate the first element. For example, abook simply resting on a table, i.e., the book is not glued or fastenedto the table, is “temporarily disposed” on the table.

As used herein, “operatively coupled” means that a number of elements orassemblies, each of which is movable between a first position and asecond position, or a first configuration and a second configuration,are coupled so that as the first element moves from oneposition/configuration to the other, the second element moves betweenpositions/configurations as well. It is noted that a first element maybe “operatively coupled” to another without the opposite being true.

As used herein, “correspond” indicates that two structural componentsare sized and shaped to be similar to each other and may be coupled witha minimum amount of friction. Thus, an opening which “corresponds” to amember is sized slightly larger than the member so that the member maypass through the opening with a minimum amount of friction. Thisdefinition is modified if the two components are to fit “snugly”together. In that situation, the difference between the size of thecomponents is even smaller whereby the amount of friction increases. Ifthe element defining the opening and/or the component inserted into theopening are made from a deformable or compressible material, the openingmay even be slightly smaller than the component being inserted into theopening. With regard to surfaces, shapes, and lines, two, or more,“corresponding” surfaces, shapes, or lines have generally the same size,shape, and contours.

As used herein, a “path of travel” or “path,” when used in associationwith an element that moves, includes the space an element moves throughwhen in motion. As such, any element that moves inherently has a “pathof travel” or “path.” Further, a “path of travel” or “path” relates to amotion of one identifiable construct as a whole relative to anotherobject. For example, assuming a perfectly smooth road, a rotating wheel(an identifiable construct) on an automobile generally does not moverelative to the body (another object) of the automobile. That is, thewheel, as a whole, does not change its position relative to, forexample, the adjacent fender. Thus, a rotating wheel does not have a“path of travel” or “path” relative to the body of the automobile.Conversely, the air inlet valve on that wheel (an identifiableconstruct) does have a “path of travel” or “path” relative to the bodyof the automobile. That is, while the wheel rotates and is in motion,the air inlet valve as a whole, moves relative to the body of theautomobile.

As used herein, and with respect to electricity or a current, a current“path” means one, or a plurality of coupled conductive elements, thatprovide a route through which electricity travels.

As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components“engage” one another means that the elements exert a force or biasagainst one another either directly or through one or more intermediateelements or components. Further, as used herein with regard to movingparts, a moving part may “engage” another element during the motion fromone position to another and/or may “engage” another element once in thedescribed position. Thus, it is understood that the statements, “whenelement A moves to element A first position, element A engages elementB,” and “when element A is in element A first position, element Aengages element B” are equivalent statements and mean that element Aeither engages element B while moving to element A first position and/orelement A either engages element B while in element A first position.

As used herein, “operatively engage” means “engage and move.” That is,“operatively engage” when used in relation to a first component that isstructured to move a movable or rotatable second component means thatthe first component applies a force sufficient to cause the secondcomponent to move. For example, a screwdriver may be placed into contactwith a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, thescrewdriver is merely “coupled” to the screw. If an axial force isapplied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is pressed against the screwand “engages” the screw; however, when a rotational force is applied tothe screwdriver, the screwdriver “operatively engages” the screw andcauses the screw to rotate.

As used herein, “depending” means to extend at an angle other than zero(0°) from another element without regard to direction. That is, forexample, a “depending” sidewall may extend generally upwardly from abase. Further, a “depending” sidewall inherently has a distal end.

As used herein, the word “unitary” means a component that is created asa single piece or unit. That is, a component that includes pieces thatare created separately and then coupled together as a unit is not a“unitary” component or body.

As used herein, the term “number” shall mean one or an integer greaterthan one (i.e., a plurality). Thus, for example, a “number of elements”means one element or a plurality of elements.

As used herein, in the phrase “[x] moves between its first position andsecond position,” or, “[y] is structured to move [x] between its firstposition and second position,” “[x]” is the name of an element orassembly. Further, when [x] is an element or assembly that moves betweena number of positions, the pronoun “its” means “[x],” i.e., the namedelement or assembly that precedes the pronoun “its.”

As used herein, a “radial side/surface” for a circular or cylindricalbody is a side/surface that extends about, or encircles, the centerthereof or a height line passing through the center thereof. As usedherein, an “axial side/surface” for a circular or cylindrical body is aside that extends in a plane extending generally perpendicular to aheight line passing through the center. That is, generally, for acylindrical soup can, the “radial side/surface” is the generallycircular sidewall and the “axial side(s)/surface(s)” are the top andbottom of the soup can. Further, as used herein, a “radially extendingsurface” means a surface defined by a plane that extends generally alonga radial line and/or a surface that is generally perpendicular to anaxial surface.

As used herein, “about” in a phrase such as “disposed about [an element,point or axis]” or “extend about [an element, point or axis]” or “[X]degrees about an [an element, point or axis],” means encircle, extendaround, or measured around. When used in reference to a measurement orin a similar manner, “about” means “approximately,” i.e., in anapproximate range relevant to the measurement as would be understood byone of ordinary skill in the art.

As used herein, “generally curvilinear” includes elements havingmultiple curved portions, combinations of curved portions and planarportions, and a plurality of planar portions or segments disposed atangles relative to each other thereby forming a curve.

As used herein, “generally” means “in a general manner” relevant to theterm being modified as would be understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art.

As used herein, “substantially” means “for the most part” relevant tothe term being modified as would be understood by one of ordinary skillin the art.

As used herein, “at” means on and/or near relevant to the term beingmodified as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an installation 10 includes a number ofsource assemblies 12 and a number of receiving assemblies 14 as well asa transmission assembly 16. As used herein, a “source assembly” is anassembly that produces electricity, communication/data signals, oranything that is capable of being transmitted over a wire and/or aconductor. As used herein, a “receiving assembly” is an assembly thatreceives the electricity, communication/data signals. In an exemplaryembodiment, as shown, the installation 10 is a solar power generationfacility 11, the source assemblies 12 are solar panels 13, and thereceiving assembly 14 (one shown) is a combiner box 15. The transmissionassembly 16 is structured to support current wire(s) 20 (as definedabove) and data wires (not shown). As shown, the current wire(s) 20provide a current path from the solar panels 13 to any receivingassembly 14. It is understood that there are also conducting wires (notshown) from another source of electricity, such as, but not limited to asource of A/C current. The A/C current is used to operate devices at thesolar panels 13 such as, but not limited to, positioning devices andmonitoring devices.

The transmission assembly 16 includes a support assembly 30 and agrounding system 40. In an exemplary embodiment, the support assembly 30includes number of piles 32, a number of multi-function line assemblies34, and a number of cable hangers 38. The piles 32 are structured tosupport the multi-function line assemblies 34 (one shown) at anelevation above the ground. The multi-function line assemblies 34include a multi-function line 35 and two terminal ends 36, 37. Themulti-function line 35 is structured to support the cable hangers 38which, in turn, support the current wire(s) 20 and the data wires.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the multi-function lineassembly terminal ends 36, 37 include a conductive terminal support 44.As used herein, a “conductive terminal support” 44 is structured tocouple a multi-function line 35 to a support, draw the multi-functionline 35 taut, and provide a current path between the multi-function line35 and the support. The support is, for example a conductive pile 32′(discussed below). One embodiment of a multi-function line assemblyterminal end 36 includes a thimble eye 46 that includes a body 47defining an aperture 48 and which includes a threaded base 49. Thethimble eye 46 is made from a conductive material. As is known, themulti-function line 35 is passed through the thimble eye body aperture48 and coupled to itself so as to form a loop. The thimble eye bodythreaded base 49 is coupled to a conductive pile 32′ and drawn tightusing a nut (not numbered). In this configuration, the multi-functionline 35 and the conductive terminal support 44 are in electricalcommunication and provide a current path to the conductive pile 32′.That is, the multi-function line 35, the conductive terminal support 44and the conductive pile 32′ define, collectively, a current path and thepath between the multi-function line 35 and the conductive terminalsupport 44 is the exclusive current path between the multi-function line35 and the conductive pile 32′.

In another embodiment, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the multi-function lineassembly terminal ends 36, 37 include a non-conductive terminal support45 as well as a grounding assembly 26. In this embodiment, thenon-conductive terminal support 45 does not provide, or does not providean exclusive, current path to the ground. In this embodiment, thegrounding assembly 26 provides the path, or the primary path, for acurrent to the ground. In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 5, the groundingassembly 26 includes a ground wire 27 extending between, and providingelectrical communication between, the multi-function line 35 and aconductive pile 32′ to which a terminal end 36, 37 is coupled, directlycoupled, or fixed. In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 6, the groundingassembly 26 includes a ground wire 27 (as before) as well as a groundrod 28. In an exemplary embodiment, the ground rod 28 is disposedadjacent the conductive pile 32′ to which a terminal end 36, 37 iscoupled, directly coupled, or fixed. In this embodiment, the ground wire27 extends between, and provides electrical communication between, themulti-function line 35 and the ground rod 28.

The cable hangers 38, such as but not limited to the cable hangersdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,722,405, are structured to be coupled,directly coupled, temporarily coupled, or fixed to the multi-functionline 35. In an exemplary embodiment, the cable hangers 38 aresubstantially fixed to the multi-function line 35; thus, the cablehangers 38 do not move along the multi-function line 35. The cablehangers 38 include a number of cable support receptacles. For example,in an exemplary embodiment, there is one cable support receptacle forA/C wires, another cable support receptacle for D/C wires, and anotherreceptacle for a data wire. The receptacles are each spaced from oneanother.

The grounding system 40 is structured to, and does, provide a path toground for electricity. That is, the grounding system 40 includesconductive elements, or partially conductive elements, as those termsare defined below. The disclosed and claimed grounding system 40 is,unlike the prior art, incorporated into selected elements of the supportassembly 30. That is, in an exemplary embodiment, the piles 32 and themulti-function line 35 are conductive elements. As used herein, a“conductive” element includes “highly conductive” sub-elements and/or“partially conductive” sub-elements. As used herein, a “highlyconductive” (sub-)element is an element that has minimal resistance toelectricity and/or wherein electricity can pass through all portions ofthe element. For example, a copper wire or a construct madesubstantially from copper is a “highly conductive” element. As usedherein, a “partially conductive” (sub-)element is one that conductselectricity, but with some resistance or wherein electricity does notpass through all portions of the element. For example, galvanized steelor a steel wire with copper cladding are examples of a “partiallyconductive” element.

Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the grounding system 40 includesconductive piles 32′. That is, the conductive piles 32′ are structuredto, and do, conduct electricity. As the conductive piles 32′ aredisposed in the ground, the conductive piles 32′ are in electricalcommunication with the ground, i.e., the conductive piles 32′ aregrounded. In one exemplary embodiment, not shown, the conductive piles32′ include a generally non-conductive body, e.g., wood or compositebodies, with a highly conductive element, e.g., a copper wire, or apartially conductive element, i.e., a steel cable, coupled, directlycoupled, temporarily coupled, or fixed thereto. In the embodiment shown,the conductive piles 32′ include a partially conductive body 42 such as,but not limited to, a galvanized steel C-beam or galvanized steelI-beam.

Further, the multi-function line 35 is conductive, as noted above. Thus,the multi-function line 35 is also part of the grounding system 40 aswell as the support assembly 30. As used herein, a multi-function line35 includes highly conductive elements and/or partially conductiveelements. That is, as part of the disclosed and claimed concept, themulti-function line 35 is structured to conduct electricity when neededbut not in the normal course of use. As noted above, one non-limitingexample of when a multi-function line 35 is needed to conductelectricity includes an instance when the multi-function line 35, orsome element coupled thereto, is struck by lightning or wherein afault/short occurs in current wire(s) 20. Such an instance isuncontrollable and, as such, is not in the normal course of use.

The multi-function line 35 includes one of a highly conductive body or apartially conductive body 50. That is, in one embodiment, themulti-function line 35 body is a copper wire or a copper cable, i.e.,copper wires twisted together or about a copper core. Such a highlymulti-function line 35, however, has a lower strength when compared to asteel multi-function line 35. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, themulti-function line 35 includes a partially conductive body 50. Forexample, a partially conductive body 50 includes both copper and steelelements. As shown in FIG. 7, in an exemplary embodiment, the partiallyconductive body 50 is a cable 52 that includes conductive strands 54,(as used herein “strands 54” identifies all conductive strands nototherwise identified by another reference number) such as, but notlimited to, copper strands, as well as copper clad steel strands 56. Inanother embodiment, not shown, the partially conductive body 50 is acable that includes conductive strands and non-conductive strands. Inanother embodiment, not shown, the multi-function line 35 is a cablethat includes only partially conductive strands such as, but not limitedto, copper clad steel strands 56 as described above. Thus, themulti-function line 35 includes strands 54 selected from the groupconsisting of: copper strands, copper-clad steel strands, galvanizedsteel strands, a conductive alloy strands, partially conductive, alloystrands, or are a composite of strands. As used herein, a “composite ofstrands,” or alternately “composite strands,” means that the strandsinclude only copper strands 54 and copper-clad steel strands 56.Further, a multi-function line 35 made from composite strands isidentified herein as a “composite multi-function line” 35. Use ofcomposite strands, or use of a composite multi-function line 35,provides both the conductivity and strength needed to solve theproblem(s) noted above. In an exemplary embodiment, the compositemulti-function line 35 has only seven strands wherein three strands arecopper and four strands are copper-clad steel strands. Thisconfiguration of a multi-function line 35, also provides both theconductivity and strength needed to solve the problem(s) noted above.

The grounding system 40 also includes a number of conductive mountingassemblies 60. The conductive mounting assemblies 60 are structured to,and do, couple the multi-function line 35 to the conductive piles 32′and are also structured to, an do, provide a path of electricalcommunication between the multi-function line 35 to the conductive piles32′. That is, each conductive mounting assembly 60 is structured to becoupled, directly coupled, temporarily coupled, or fixed to themulti-function line 35 and to a conductive pile 32′ and to be inelectrical communication with both. When the multi-function line 35 iscoupled to a conductive pile 32′ by a conductive mounting assembly 60,the multi-function line 35 is in electrical communication with theconductive pile 32′. Thus, any current carried by the multi-functionline 35 is coupled to the ground. That is, the grounding system 40grounds the multi-function line 35 and any element in electricalcommunication therewith.

In an exemplary embodiment, each conductive mounting assembly 60includes a mounting body 62, a support coupling 64 and a number ofmulti-function line couplings 66. Each conductive mounting assemblymounting body 62 (hereinafter, “mounting body”) is highly conductive orpartially conductive. Further, each mounting body 62 is one of aconductive body 70 or a conductive body assembly (not shown). Forexample, a conductive body assembly includes a non-conductive element,such as a plastic bracket, as well as a conductive element, such as acopper wire. In the embodiment shown, the mounting body conductive body70 is galvanized steel. That is, the mounting body conductive body 70 isa partially conductive body.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, in an exemplary embodiment, eachmounting body 62 is a simplified shape. As used herein, a “simplifiedshape” means a body or assembly including generally planar portions andtransitional bends or welds between the generally planar portions. Asshown, and in an exemplary embodiment, each mounting body 62 is anL-shaped bracket 90. That is, each L-shaped bracket 90 is a unitary body91 that includes a minor (shorter) planar portion 92 and a major(longer) planar portion 94 with a generally ninety degree transitionalbend 96 therebetween. An example of a non-unitary body with a“simplified shape” (not shown) includes, but is not limited to aT-shaped bracket wherein two generally planar bars are welded to eachother. A mounting body 62 with a simplified shape is inexpensive andsolves the problem(s) noted above.

Each conductive mounting assembly support coupling 64 (hereinafter,“support coupling” 64) is structured to, and does, couple, directlycouple, temporarily couple, or fix each mounting body 62 to anassociated conductive pile 32′. When a conductive mounting body 62 iscoupled to a conductive pile 32′ the two elements are in electricalcommunication. Thus, each mounting body 62 is grounded via theassociated conductive pile 32′. In an exemplary embodiment wherein eachmounting body 62 is an L-shaped bracket 90, the minor planar portion 92is coupled, directly coupled, temporarily coupled, or fixed to theassociated conductive pile 32′. That is, the support coupling 64includes a number of openings 100 in the minor planar portion 92 as wellas a coupling assembly such as, but not limited to a bolt 102 and nut104. The support coupling 64 also includes openings (not shown) in theassociated conductive pile 32′ through which the bolt 102 extends. In anexemplary embodiment, the elements of the support coupling 64 areconductive. That is, for example, the bolt 102 and nut 104 are made fromhighly conductive and/or partially conductive materials. In anotherembodiment, the minor planar portion 92 is directly coupled ortemporarily, directly coupled to the associated conductive pile 32′.

Each conductive mounting assembly multi-function line coupling 66(hereinafter, “multi-function line coupling” 66) defines a conductivepath. In an exemplary embodiment, each multi-function line coupling 66is highly conductive. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, eachmulti-function line coupling 66 is structured to, and does, couple,directly couple, temporarily couple, or fix the multi-function line 35to the mounting body 62. Thus, the multi-function line coupling 66provides electrical communication between the multi-function line 35 andthe mounting body 62. As the mounting body 62 is grounded, as describedabove, the multi-function line 35 is also grounded.

In one exemplary embodiment, each multi-function line coupling 66engages, i.e., applies a bias or “clamps,” the multi-function line 35.In this embodiment, the multi-function line coupling 66 includes one ofa clamping assembly 80 (FIGS. 8A-8C), a split bolt 82 (FIG. 9A-9C), aU-bolt 84 (FIG. 10B, in ghost), a double bolt and retaining plateassembly 86 (FIGS. 10A-10C), or a lay-in lug assembly 88 (FIGS. 11A-11C.As used herein, a “clamping assembly” includes two elements acting inconcert, i.e., together, as well as a bias device such as, but notlimited to, a spring or a threaded rod. For example, the “two elementsacting in concert” include two elements that are pivotally coupled toeach other. In this embodiment, the bias device biases the pivotallycoupled elements together. As used herein, a “split bolt” includes athreaded rod including a passage and a threaded passage, passage, and/ora nut. As is known, and as shown in FIG. 6B, a cable, such asmulti-function line 35 is passed through the rod passage and thethreaded rod is drawn against the passage by tightening the nut.

In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 12, each conductive mountingassembly 60 is structured to support a plurality of multi-function lines35. Thus, in this embodiment, there are a plurality of multi-functionline couplings 66. Each multi-function line coupling 66 is disposed inone of a “first effective distance,” a “second effective distance,” or a“third effective distance” from an adjacent multi-function line coupling66. As used herein, a “first effective distance” means between less thanone foot to about one hundred feet apart. As used herein, a “secondeffective distance” means between one foot and about fifty feet apart.As used herein, a “third effective distance” means between about fivefeet and about thirty feet apart.

When assembled, the grounding system 40 includes a multi-function line35 that is coupled, directly coupled, temporarily coupled, or fixed to amulti-function line coupling 66. The multi-function line coupling 66 iscoupled, directly coupled, temporarily coupled, or fixed or unitary withthe conductive mounting body 62. The conductive mounting body 62 iscoupled, directly coupled, temporarily coupled, or fixed to a conductivepile 32′ via a conductive support coupling 64. In this configuration,the multi-function line 35 is grounded through the conductive mountingassembly 60 and the conductive pile 32′. Moreover, in one embodiment ofsuch a conductive mounting assembly 60, the multi-function line assembly34 does not include any grounding splices. In another embodiment of theconductive mounting assembly 60, the multi-function line assembly 34does not include any medial grounding splices. As used herein, “medialgrounding splices” means grounding splices other than at the terminalends 36, 37 of the multi-function line 35. That is, in a configurationwherein the multi-function line 35 has a grounding splice at only one,or both, of the terminal ends 36, 37, the multi-function line 35 doesnot include any “medial grounding splices.” This solves the problem(s)noted above.

In an exemplary embodiment, grounding system 40 is structured to beoperational with solar electrical equipment. That is, in a solar powergeneration facility 11, there is a well-known configuration of currentwire(s) 20 associated with the solar electrical equipment and whichcommunicate a current in a limited range of amperes. As such, to be“structured to be operational with solar electrical equipment,” as usedherein, means to be structured to support the weight of current wire(s)20 associated with a solar electrical equipment and to be structured tocommunicate currents associated with solar electrical equipment.

When installed, the grounding system 40 operates as follows. In aninstance where there is a fault in a high voltage wire 20 supported bythe cable hangers 38, an arc forms between the fault and themulti-function line 35. The current is then communicated to one of aconductive mounting assembly 60, or, to a conductive terminal support 44and then to the conductive pile 32′. The conductive pile 32′ is indirect electrical communication with the ground. Alternatively, if agrounding assembly 26 is installed, the current passes from themulti-function line 35 through the grounding assembly 26 to the ground.It is understood that the current follows the path of least resistanceto the ground. Thus, the current is communicated to the ground. Asanother example, when lightning strikes the solar panels 13, racking orother equipment, or the multi-function line 35, the current iscommunicated to a conductive pile 32′ via the multi-function line 35 andone of a conductive mounting assembly 60 or a conductive terminalsupport 44, or, the current passes from the multi-function line 35 to agrounding assembly 26.

Thus, the disclosed grounding system 40 provides a path to ground for acurrent without including a separate messenger wire and conductor andwithout grounding splices between a conductor and each pile (or withoutany medial grounding splices). Further, the multi-function line 35 bothsupports the cable hangers 38 and current wires 20 while providing apath to ground. This solves the problems stated above.

While specific embodiments of the invention have been described indetail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and alternatives to those details could be developed inlight of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, theparticular arrangements disclosed are meant to be illustrative only andnot limiting as to the scope of invention which is to be given the fullbreadth of the claims appended and any and all equivalents thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A grounding system comprising a multi-functionline.
 2. The grounding system of claim 1 wherein said multi-functionline is structured to be operational with solar electrical equipment. 3.The grounding system of claim 1 wherein: said multi-function lineassembly includes a terminal end; and wherein said terminal end is aconductive terminal support.
 4. The grounding system of claim 1 whereinsaid multi-function line assembly does not include any medial groundingsplices.
 5. The grounding system of claim 1 wherein said multi-functionline includes one of a highly conductive body or a partially conductivebody.
 6. The grounding system of claim 1 wherein said multi-functionline includes strands selected from the group consisting of: copperstrands, copper-clad steel strands, galvanized strands, conductive alloystrands, partially conductive, alloy strands, or composite strands. 7.The grounding system of claim 1 wherein said multi-function lineassembly includes three copper strands and four copper-clad steelstrands.
 8. A transmission assembly structured to support current wireextending between an installation source assembly and an installationreceiving assembly, said transmission assembly comprising: a number ofcable hangers; each said cable hanger structured to be coupled to amulti-function line and structured to support a current wire; amulti-function line assembly including a multi-function line; and saidmulti-function line coupled to, and in electrical communication with,each said cable hanger.
 9. The transmission assembly of claim 8 whereinsaid multi-function line is structured to be operational with solarelectrical equipment.
 10. The transmission assembly of claim 8 wherein:said multi-function line assembly includes a terminal end; and whereinsaid terminal end is a conductive terminal support.
 11. The transmissionassembly of claim 8 wherein said multi-function line assembly does notinclude any medial grounding splices.
 12. The transmission assembly ofclaim 8 wherein said multi-function line includes one of a highlyconductive body or a partially conductive body.
 13. The transmissionassembly of claim 8 wherein said multi-function line includes strandsselected from the group consisting of: copper strands, copper-clad steelstrands, galvanized strands, conductive alloy strands, partiallyconductive, alloy strands, or composite strands.
 14. The transmissionassembly of claim 8 wherein said multi-function line assembly includesthree copper strands and four copper-clad steel strands.
 15. Aninstallation comprising: a source assembly; a receiving assembly; acurrent wire extending between said source assembly and said receivingassembly; a number of cable hangers; each said cable hanger structuredto be coupled to a multi-function line and structured to support acurrent wire; a multi-function line assembly including a multi-functionline; said current wire coupled to each said cable hanger; and saidmulti-function line coupled to, and in electrical communication with,each said cable hanger.
 16. The installation of claim 15 wherein saidmulti-function line is structured to be operational with solarelectrical equipment.
 17. The installation of claim 15 wherein: saidmulti-function line assembly includes a terminal end; and wherein saidterminal end is a conductive terminal support.
 18. The installation ofclaim 15 wherein said multi-function line assembly does not include anymedial grounding splices.
 19. The installation of claim 15 wherein saidmulti-function line includes one of a highly conductive body or apartially conductive body.
 20. The installation of claim 15 wherein saidmulti-function line includes strands selected from the group consistingof: copper strands, copper-clad steel strands, galvanized strands,conductive alloy strands, partially conductive, alloy strands, orcomposite strands.